Ancient Jain Temple Robbed in Nagpur: Idols, Cash Stolen in Daring Heist

Nagpur, Maharashtra – In a shocking incident that has left the Jain community and residents of Nagpur outraged, an ancient Jain temple located in the Old Shukrawari area under Kotwali Police Station was robbed late on Thursday night. The thieves made away with five ancient idols, a silver throne, cash from the donation box, and other valuable items, leaving devotees and authorities in disbelief. 

The incident came to light on Friday morning when the temple priest arrived for daily prayers and discovered the theft. The robbers reportedly broke into the temple around 2:10 AM, targeting the sacred idols and valuables. CCTV footage from the temple has captured the suspects, and police are currently analysing the footage to identify and apprehend the culprits. 

The stolen items include five silver idols of Lord Mahavira, a silver throne, 12 silver ornaments, and cash from the donation box. The total value of the stolen items is estimated to be in the lakhs, but the emotional and spiritual loss to the Jain community is immeasurable. 

Devotees and members of the Jain community have expressed their anger and grief over the incident. Many have demanded immediate action from the police to recover the stolen idols and bring the culprits to justice. A representative of the Jain community stated, “This is not just a theft; it is an attack on our faith. We urge the police to act swiftly and ensure that the sacred idols are returned to the temple.” 

The Kotwali Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt to trace the suspects. Senior police officials have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to solve the case at the earliest. “We are examining the CCTV footage and following all leads. Our teams are working round the clock to ensure the culprits are caught and the stolen items are recovered,” said a police spokesperson. 

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with locals calling for increased security at religious sites across the city. The Jain community has also threatened to stage a protest if the stolen idols are not recovered soon. “If the idols are not returned, the entire Jain community will go on a hunger strike until justice is served,” warned a community leader. 

This brazen theft has not only shaken the faith of devotees but also raised concerns about the safety of religious institutions in the city. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent such incidents in the future. 

As the investigation continues, the Jain community and residents of Nagpur await justice, hoping for the swift recovery of their sacred idols and the arrest of those responsible for this heinous crime. 

Vidarbha News Desk
28th February 2025